Beau Sutherland Officially Assumes GM Role At Peoria Civic Center

The Peoria Civic Center Authority (PCCA) and Legends Global announced the appointment of Beau Sutherland as General Manager of the Peoria Civic Center. Sutherland has served as Interim General Manager since June 1, 2026, and previously held the position of Assistant General Manager.

In his official capacity as GM, Sutherland will oversee all operations of the Peoria Civic Center, which includes the Prairie Home Alliance Theater, arena and convention center. He will work closely with the Peoria Civic Center Authority, Legends Global, building tenants, community stakeholders and regional partners to strengthen the venue’s role as a premier entertainment destination, economic driver and gathering place for Central Illinois.

“I am incredibly honored to be named General Manager of the Peoria Civic Center,” stated Sutherland in the announcement. “This facility has been my professional home for more than two decades, and I have had the privilege of working alongside an exceptionally talented team dedicated to creating memorable experiences for our guests, clients and community. I appreciate the confidence the Peoria Civic Center Authority and Legends Global have placed in me, and I look forward to building on our success, bringing new events and opportunities to Peoria and expanding the Civic Center’s role as a driving force for Central Illinois.”

Sutherland began his career at the facility in August 2000 and is among the venue’s longest-tenured employees to assume the role. He brings a deep understanding of the Civic Center’s history, operations, community partnerships and opportunities for future growth.

Throughout his career, he has held leadership positions in sales, marketing and business development. He concurrently served as Regional Marketing Director for ASM Global, providing strategic leadership and support to venue marketing teams nationwide, before becoming Assistant General Manager in November 2024.

His experience in sales and destination development has driven significant growth for the venue’s convention center and helped make 2025 the strongest fiscal year in Peoria Civic Center history for convention center performance and overall venue revenue.

Sutherland has been instrumental in developing strategic partnerships that support the facility’s long-term growth and success. Among his notable achievements is securing the naming rights partnership for the Prairie Home Alliance Theater, increasing the venue’s visibility and creating a valuable collaboration with a respected regional organization. He also played a key role in establishing a partnership with CXT Coffee that resulted in the build-out of a coffee café at the Civic Center, providing an inviting space for guests attending events.

Beyond his professional contributions, Sutherland is deeply invested in the Peoria community. A longtime advocate for initiatives that enhance the region’s quality of life and economic vitality, he has contributed his time, leadership and expertise to numerous community efforts and served in several appointed civic roles. His involvement with organizations including the Peoria Riverfront Association, Downtown Advisory Commission, Riverfront Planning Committee, Heart of Illinois United Way, Peoria Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, Easterseals, St. Jude, and the Illinois High School Association reflects his commitment to making Peoria a vibrant place to live, work and visit.

“Beau’s impact extends far beyond the walls of the Peoria Civic Center,” stated Rick Semonis, Chair of the Peoria Civic Center Authority Board in the announcement. “Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, built strong relationships across our community and consistently delivered results for this organization. His passion for the Civic Center, deep understanding of our market, and vision for the future make him the right leader to guide the facility into its next chapter. We are excited to build on our momentum under his leadership.”